NITDA DG Pledges Support for AI Research, Startups in Nigeria
0
0
NITDA DG Pledges Support for AI Research, Startups in Nigeria
By Alabidun Shuaib AbdulRahman
As part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, has affirmed the government’s commitment to bolstering startups and advancing AI research in Nigeria.
Speaking at the Innovate Nigeria 2024 Conference & Expo in Lagos, Inuwa stated, “There could not have been any better time to hold such a conference than now when the rapid acceleration of Artificial Intelligence presents an intriguing paradox, as its seemingly limitless potential promises to revolutionise every facet of life.”
In his keynote address, Inuwa highlighted global trends in government investment in AI research, stressing its positive correlation with advancements and economic growth.
READ ALSO: Tinubu’s Accurate 12-Year-Old Prediction on Subsidy Removal Effects, by Farooq A. Kperogi
He noted that the Nigerian government’s initiatives align with its 8-point agenda, particularly emphasizing the importance of fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
“Investments in research and development, collaborative ecosystems, policies, international collaboration, and education are pivotal,” Inuwa affirmed. He further highlighted the relevance of the government’s agenda, citing its resonance with AI research and digital service democratization.
The DG who was represented by the Agency’s Director, Corporate Planning and Strategy Department, Dr Aristotle Onumo expressed gratitude to Nova Tech for organising and hosting the conference while emphasising its timely nature amidst the rapid acceleration of AI’s transformative potential globally.
In elucidating NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan, Inuwa emphasized elevating the country’s AI research ranking and fostering digital literacy.
He underscored the importance of collaboration frameworks and government support in nurturing a vibrant innovation ecosystem.
Inuwa, therefore, reiterated the transformative potential of AI in driving economic prosperity and stressed the significance of government-ecosystem collaboration in exploring new knowledge frontiers.
